An actor Shivaji’s remarks made during a film pre-release event have triggered a major controversy in the Telugu film industry. His comments on actresses’ clothing were widely criticised as insulting, intimidating, and disrespectful towards women.
In response, more than a hundred women film professionals, including director Nandini Reddy, producers Supriya Yarlagadda and Swapna Dutt, actor-producer Lakshmi Manchu, and anchor Jhansi, submitted a letter to the Movie Artistes Association (MAA). They stated that such remarks made on public platforms are legally punishable and undermine women’s dignity. The signatories demanded an unconditional public apology from Shivaji and decisive action from MAA.
The letter also expressed concern over the industry’s silence on recent trolling incidents involving actresses Nidhhi Agerwal and Samantha, warning that silence on issues of women’s safety and dignity is dangerous.
Although Shivaji released an apology video,Movie Artists Association MAA’s declaration that the issue had been resolved drew strong objections. Prominent voices such as Anasuya, Chinmayi, Kondaveeti Satyavathi, and Manchu Manoj strongly reacted, emphasizing that dignity comes from behaviour, not clothing.
This incident has once again sparked a wider debate within the film industry on respect for women, accountability, and the need for strong institutional action.
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